To Gavin, baseball was never just a game. At his young age, baseball has drove and taught him lessons he will carry forever. Its his outlet, his escape, and what gets him going and motivated everyday.
When asked what his favorite part about playing, Gavin doesn’t just think about the prime moments. “In particular, I would say that I enjoy doing the little things the most. These include bunt defense work, PFP’s, pickoffs, and mastering my craft,” he said. For him, those small details matter. Its a big thing that sets him apart from his competition. “I enjoy these parts of the game the most because I feel like it’s apart of the game people overlook… In reality it is one of the biggest aspects of the game and will give you a huge advantage over the rest.”
Gavin knows without his support system this journey wouldn’t be possible. “My family, friends, and coaches have contributed much to my success, but my dad has always been my best supporter in life,” he said. “From traveling across the country, late nights at the field, or just being someone to talk to, Gavin’s dad has supported him without fail.” He is beyond grateful to have them in his corner. What his father had to say about Gavin was that he is a very hardworking student-athlete who gives his best in both sports and school. He puts in extra effort at practice, stays focused in the classroom, and always finds a way to push through challenges. His drive and commitment shows how much he cares about improving and succeeding. His parents are very proud of the young man that he is becoming.
One of the hardest moments in Gavin’s career came during the State Semifinal game last season against South Windsor High School. “It started off with me walking the first 3 batters… the next inning I was not so lucky. After walking another 2 batters, I gave up a 3 Run Homerun which gave them the lead. “The crowd was going wild, we were losing, and all I could think was, what actually just happened.” It was a really tough moment, but one that pushed him to grow. To him it doesn’t just grow you as a player, but more importantly as a human being. “Once all the emotions settled down, I remembered that failure is the path to success and would only make me better. I saw it as a way to improve and as motivation.”
Baseball has taught Gavin more than just how to compete. “It’s a part of who I am and has shaped the person I have grown into. Its given me life lessons that will help me along my journey.” Walking away from basketball was still a big thing that was bothering him. “This was the right decision for me because I felt as if the injury risk was to high in basketball. It would take away time for me to focus on baseball specific things in the off season. Although Gavin has been playing basketball his whole life, it takes these life changing decisions when chasing a dream.
In conclusion, baseball is a place where Gavin has found his motivation. “When I would be working really hard and no one ever noticed me for anything it was hard. I finally broke out and started getting recognition. I always carry that feeling of not having accomplished enough along with being overlooked, to push me to be the best.”
To Gavin, Baseball is his everything, his world, and his identity. Gavin is currently in Mexico representing the United States on Team USA 15U. He is accomplishing so much at such a young age, making him, Norwalks Next Prodigy.
